Zoning board approves pool-deck expansion at 224 Turnpike Avenue

The Portsmouth Zoning Board of Review voted to grant a 10-foot dimensional variance that lets Jared Minnick expand the deck around an above-ground pool at 224 Turnpike Avenue.

Minnick told the board he wanted a 10-by-20-foot deck to make pool access safer because the pool sits five feet high and the existing decking only reaches about three feet around the pool. He said he could not place the deck on the north side because of a septic system and leach field. The board noted those site constraints when discussing the application.

A board member asked about fence height and whether the extension would alter neighborhood character; Minnick and the board agreed the decking would not materially change noise or sightlines. The board concluded there was no reasonable alternative way for the applicant to enjoy the property, that the hardship stemmed from the septic location, and that granting the variance would not alter the surrounding area’s general characteristics.

A motion to approve the requested relief was made, seconded and approved by voice vote. The board did not impose special conditions.

Officials said the decision allows the homeowner to proceed with permitting and building under whatever standard inspections apply to accessory structures in Portsmouth.